CAMPION have been boosted by the capture of experienced boss Lee Ashforth, who will work alongside James Bicknell as joint manager.

Having narrowly missed out on promotion to the Toolstation NCEL Premier Division on the final day of the season, when they lost to rivals Grimsby Borough, the arrival of Ashforth is a statement of intent for the Bradford side ahead of their fourth season in Division One.

Ashforth has been in charge of clubs higher up the National League System.

A club statement said: "Campion AFC are delighted to announced that Lee Ashforth will be joining the club as joint first team manager with James Bicknell.

"Lee brings a wealth of experience having managed Harrogate Railway Athletic, Ossett Town and Clitheroe in the Evo-Stik League.

"Lee is well known across the local area and also already known to Campion AFC management, committee and players.

"We would like to offer Lee a massive Campion welcome to the club and look forward to working with him."

Ashforth, who left Clitheroe after they finished 18th in Evo-Stik West in the season just ended, explained his reasons for making the move.

He said: "After a tough couple of seasons working for a club that was merging at the end of the season and then with a club with a budget aimed at keeping the club in the division, I was looking for a project that was progressive and one that I would enjoy, and Campion and James tick all the boxes.

"I am looking forward to working with an excellent group of players and hopefully building on a hugely successful season season for the club."

Bicknell, who side finished second behind Grimsby Borough after a 4-2 defeat to them on the final day, added: "I have known Ash for a number of years and he has always been a good source of advice as Campion have continued to improve each season.

"I am now looking forward to working alongside him and continuing to progress Campion AFC."